Learn to place your own gear correctly and climb efficiently with partners
Join AMGA Rock Guide Mallorie Estenson for a 2 day- Women’s Intro to Trad Climbing in Durango, Colorado. This trip is designed for intermediate climbers eager to learn the art and skill of traditional (trad) climbing, learning the technique and skills of placing their own gear.
With a smaller ratio at 4:1, we strive to tailor each climbing experience to the goals and objectives of each participant so you walk away with an unforgettable experience to share with family and friends.
We also want to extend a warm welcome to trans, cisgender, and any non-binary climbers whom center their education in women-focused spaces. We will be connecting at the crag together through inclusivity, strength, endurance, and education. We will learn from each other and create confident partners in the mountains.

Contact us for information about this trip
We look forward to adventuring with you. Please submit your name and email address, and we will get in touch with you about this trip.
Trip Details
Duration
2 days, 5-6 hrs per day
Difficulty
Some climbing experience necessary
Maximum Guide Ratio
4:1
Included
- AMGA and SJE trained/certified rock climbing guide
- All technical equipment (helmet, harness, climbing equipment, ropes, packs, etc.)
- Federal land usage surcharge (USFS/BLM)
Not Included
- Lunch/snack food & water
- Guide gratuity
Trip Itinerary
We will spend the day from 8 am-3 pm at X Rock located 5 minutes outside of Durango. This day is more of an intro to trad day, learning the basics of trad climbing.
Located just north of Durango on highway 550, X-Rock is hard to miss and is named after a striking pair of cracks that intersect on the walls face creating a large ‘X’ which is a fun and fantastic climbing feature. Although the climbing area is named after this notable wall, climbing isn’t limited to this face and there is an abundance of climbs suitable for all ages and ability levels. X-Rock is our most popular destination for climbing groups and families looking to spend some quality time outside without a long and challenging approach.
The group will meet at East Animas, located on the East side of town. This day will be more comprehensive and you will spend more time climbing and honing in your technique from Day 1.
Located on the eastern side of the Animas Valley up CR 250 the East Animas climbing area is perched well above the Animas Valley and offers stunning, unobstructed views of Durango and the surrounding area. After a steep but short approach, you are greeted with a fantastic variety of climbs. From single pitch sport lines to multi-pitch trad climbs East Animas is a great fit for the intermediate to advanced climber looking to do some fun climbing, push their limits, and learn from an AMGA educated & trained Rock Guide.
